22 | Robyn - Infertility, IVF in Canada, Plus Size Pregnancy, Induction, C-Section, Pumping Journey

In this episode, host Victoria Gaba sits down with Montreal-based plus size mom and fellow podcaster Robyn Flynn to explore her four-year journey through infertility, medical fatphobia, IVF, and childbirth. Managing polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS), Robyn started fertility treatments with letrozole to induce ovulation, but testing later revealed her husband also had low sperm motility and morphology. Facing combined fertility factors during the COVID-19 pandemic, they pursued intrauterine insemination (IUI), which is covered under Quebec's healthcare system.At her initial clinic, a doctor abruptly cancelled Robyn's IUI due to her 320-pound weight, claiming pregnancy was too dangerous. After Robyn shared her story on TikTok, a viewer connected her with her fertility doctor at a body-inclusive clinic. With healthy blood work, Robyn proceeded directly to IVF. Because Quebec law restricts out-of-hospital anesthesia for patients above certain BMI thresholds, Robyn underwent her egg retrieval with only local anesthetic, retrieving 28 eggs. After 12 fertilized via ICSI and 9 reached the blastocyst stage, Robyn developed ovarian hyperstimulation syndrome (OHSS), prompting a freeze-all cycle. She later personally transported her frozen embryos in a cryogenic tank to Ottawa during pandemic travel restrictions, leading to a successful transfer.Transitioning to obstetrical care brought renewed bias. Her suburban practice turned her away due to her BMI, and a subsequent doctor falsely diagnosed her with gestational diabetes despite normal test results. Robyn switched to a supportive medical team that practiced evidence-based care. She maintained a healthy pregnancy without preeclampsia or gestational diabetes.At 39 weeks, Robyn underwent a scheduled induction. After 43 hours of labor, stalled dilation, and broken membranes, her team performed a smooth emergency C-section where Robyn delivered a healthy baby girl. Her recovery involved managing post-surgical leg edema and showering twice daily to protect her incision. Due to her 48J breast size, Robyn transitioned to exclusive pumping for six months. Benefiting from Canada’s paid maternity leave and Quebec’s subsidized daycare, Robyn emphasizes the importance of evidence-based care and dismantling weight bias in maternal health.See more from Robyn on Social Media & Her Podcast! TikTokInstagramFat Chat with Robyn PodcastConnect With Us:TikTokInstagramFacebookYouTubeIf you enjoyed this episode, please leave a review and subscribe! Your support helps us reach more plus-size women and share the stories that matter.Medical Disclaimer: The information shared in this podcast is for educational and entertainment purposes only and should not be taken as medical advice. Always consult with your healthcare provider regarding your specific pregnancy and health needs.